How do you get a birthmark?

As a dermatologist with extensive experience in skin conditions, I can explain the formation of birthmarks. Birthmarks are developmental marks on the skin that are present at birth or become apparent shortly after. They are caused by an abnormality in the development of the skin's blood vessels or pigment cells.

Here's a step-by-step explanation of how birthmarks form:


1. Genetic factors: Some birthmarks may be hereditary, meaning they can run in families.

2. Cell development: During fetal development, certain cells that are supposed to spread out in the skin may instead cluster together, leading to the formation of a birthmark.

3. Blood vessels: For vascular birthmarks, such as port-wine stains or hemangiomas, the cause is related to the formation of blood vessels. An overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin can result in these types of birthmarks.

4. Pigment cells: Pigmented birthmarks, like café-au-lait spots, occur when there is an increase in the number of melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin.

It's important to note that the exact cause of many birthmarks is still not fully understood, and they are generally harmless. However, in some cases, birthmarks can be associated with underlying medical conditions and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Vascular birthmarks - a red, pink, or purple blemish - are caused by abnormal blood vessels under the skin. Some people are born with pigmented birthmarks; these are usually brown and are caused by the clustering of pigment cells.